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Recycling of Printer Cartridges and Drum Units

Posted bymshapovalova

You’re likely aware of the general environmental concerns. But let’s be real: talking about recycling printer ink cartridges, toners, and drum units isn’t typically your hot topic for a coffee chat with a buddy.

So, we’ll try our best to ensure you’ve got exciting information to share about recycling these things in your future small talk. And remember to try these rules yourself – they truly matter.

Why should you recycle printer ink cartridges, toners and drum units?

You may be looking for a big talk about the significance of ecology, the huge influence of recycling, and how our love for the planet adds years to our existence. Great, we’ll write something like that because everything above is true!

According to Toner Giant, only 30% of ink and toner cartridges are recycled worldwide. It’s a sad statistic, as recycling empty printer cartridges requires a little from a user. It’s easy, you’ll see for yourself!

But there is good news: 97% of ink or toner cartridge materials can be recycled, saving resources like oil and electricity. Proper disposal would notably cut CO2 emissions, reduce our environmental footprint, and slow global warming.

That’s why we are here: to advise you on easily recycling printer cartridges and drum units!

What do you do with old inkjet cartridges, toners, or drum units?

There are several ways to get rid of these products. Choose what works best for you and your family, and we hope you’ll give it the attention it deserves.

Return Programs/Mail-in recycling programs:

All you have to do is drop your cartridges off at a local shop or send them via mail. These programs often provide prepaid shipping labels or mail-in options for users to return used printer cartridges for recycling. Here are a few programs and initiatives:

  • Cartridge World
  • Best Buy Recycling
  • Office Depot
  • Staples
  • HP Planet Partner

Local Recycling Centers:

Some local recycling centres or waste management facilities accept used printer supplies for recycling purposes. Contact your municipality or local recycling facilities for drop-off locations.

Also, you can visit Earth911.com and find the nearest recycling point in your area.

Office Supply Stores:

Some office supply stores offer recycling services. They may have designated bins or programs for recycling used cartridges and Brother printer drum units. Here are some of that:

  • Grand & Toy (Ca)
  • Costco (Canada, US, UK, EU)
  • FedEx Office (US)
  • Viking Direct (UK, EU)
  • Lyreco (EU)
  • The UPS Store (US)


Buying remanufactured cartridges

Choosing remanufactured cartridges is another way to show you care, not just recycling them. Such cartridges have once been used but returned to the factory, cleaned thoroughly, and filled with fresh ink. When buying such products, you become a part of the recycling process and get high-quality printer ink for a lower price.

Steps of remanufacturing process:


By the way, we have the Smart Ink Remanufactured 910XL cartridge. It’s fully compatible with e-series printers (HP+) and highly resistant to firmware updates, so you can expect an uninterrupted printing experience without blockages. And, of course, it’s much more environmentally friendly!

How do you prepare cartridges and drum units for recycling?

If you’re reading this part of the article, you’re the sweetest and most knowledgeable Smarty in the World. Big thanks!

Go ahead and let’s follow these steps:

  • Remove the inkjet cartridge, laser toner or brother drum unit from the printer. Be sure to turn off and unplug the machine before doing so.
  • Check if any sealing tabs or tapes on the cartridge or drum unit need to be removed.
  • Clean the cartridge or drum unit using a soft, lint-free cloth. It’s important to ensure no residual toner or ink on the unit.
  • Place the cartridge or drum unit in a plastic bag or wrap it in a protective material. It will prevent any leakage during transportation or storage.
  • Contact a local recycling center or a specialized recycling service for instructions on properly disposing of the cartridge or drum unit. They may have specific requirements or collection points for recycling these items.
  • Choose the most convenient recycling method for you! And give your cartridge or drum unit a new life!

Let’s show our planet some love!

At Smart Ink, we’re all about recycling and preserving our planet. Remember to recycle and сhoose remanufactured cartridges. It’s important!

Every small effort leads to change in everything. We are happy that you share this idea with us, Smarty!

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